Ron Jaworski is continuing with his top-32 NFL quarterbacks countdown, but we thought we would skip ahead for the first 27 and just do our top-five quarterbacks in the NFL as we see it entering the 2013 season.
Going down the list, there is certainly clear separation between the top quarterbacks in the league, and the ones towards the bottom. In fact, it’s not really even close. It’s almost strange to think that though because one would assume that teams would be able to field better play at the quarterback position, with there only being 32 players in the worlds at the starting position. It’s clear that it’s not an easy position to play though, and these five quarterbacks below are the best in the NFL.
Beginning with No.5…
5. Eli Manning – Manning may be inconsistent at times, but there is no doubt that he is as clutch as they come. If there was only one drive remaining where the game was on the line, and one quarterback could be picked from any team, it would be Eli Manning that we would select. He knows how to win the big games, and for that, he deserves a top-five ranking.
4. Drew Brees – Brees might not be the tallest NFL quarterback, but he sees passing lanes better than any other player in the league. There is a reason he holds the single-season mark for most passing yards. Brees can make all the throws, and is known for making completions to a bunch of different receivers in the process, getting everyone involved.
3. Tom Brady – Brady is a winner, there is no doubt about that. He will go down as one of the all-time great quarterbacks to play. He will be put to the test in 2013 though, with the departure of several key players on the Patriots, as well as injury issues with the ones that are still there. He will need every bit of his skillset. Good thing he has plenty of it.
2. Aaron Rodgers – Most might have Rodgers as No.1 on the list, but there are a few things that we think separate Rodgers from the quarterback at the top position. There is no question that Rodgers can carry a team and has proved that. He has arguably the best arm in the NFL as well, combined with his fantastic accuracy.
1. Peyton Manning – Simply put, there is only one Peyton Manning, and he belongs at the top. For those wondering if he would come back and be the same player, they were silenced. In just his first year with the Broncos he took them to the No.1 seed in the AFC. While the playoffs were disappointing, imagine what could happen this year with a normal offseason under his belt.